Indiana Hunting Guide 2026
Complete Indiana hunting guide for 2026: seasons, license costs, draw odds, GMU boundaries, bag limits, and regulations. Compare every game species at a glance.
Wildlife Agency
Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife
Hunter safety course required for first-time buyers
Indiana Hunting Seasons
Whitetail Deer
Res: $24 Non-res: $150
| Season Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Archery | Oct 1 | Jan 7 |
| Shotgun | Nov 18 | Dec 3 |
| Muzzleloader | Dec 9 | Dec 24 |
Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1 antlered + bonus antlerless
No high-powered rifle season — shotguns and muzzleloaders only. Bonus antlerless licenses available in most counties.
Turkey
Res: $24 Non-res: $150
| Season Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Shotgun | Apr 26 | May 14 |
| Archery | Oct 1 | Nov 5 |
Bag limits: daily: 1, season: 1 (spring)
Spring bearded turkey only. Youth season weekend prior to opener. Turkey populations growing statewide.
Duck/Waterfowl
Res: $24 Non-res: $150
| Season Type | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Shotgun | Oct 28 | Dec 17 |
Bag limits: daily: 6, season: No season limit
Federal and state stamps required. Indiana is in the Mississippi Flyway. Split season possible.
Planning Tools
- Tag-to-Trail Planner — interactive map: public land, harvest records, water, burns
- Hunt Cost Calculator — budget your full hunt cost
- Application Timeline — never miss an application deadline
- Preference Point Tracker — track points across all your states
Indiana Hunting Guides
Indiana Hunting FAQ
Do I need a hunting license in Indiana?
Yes. All hunters in Indiana must hold a valid hunting license from the Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife. Non-residents typically pay higher fees. A hunter safety course is required for first-time license buyers.
What is the hunting license cost in Indiana?
Indiana license costs vary by species. Whitetail Deer: resident $24, non-resident $150. Turkey: resident $24, non-resident $150.
When is deer season in Indiana?
Indiana deer seasons: Archery: Oct 1 - Jan 7, Shotgun: Nov 18 - Dec 3, Muzzleloader: Dec 9 - Dec 24.
Does Indiana require a hunter safety course?
Yes, Indiana requires hunter education certification for all first-time hunters. The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting practices.
Who manages hunting regulations in Indiana?
The Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife manages all hunting licenses, regulations, and wildlife management in Indiana. Their website (https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife) has current season dates, license purchasing, and regulation booklets.